Cavity Treatment and Sealants

Cavity Treatment

If your child develops cavities, we will treat them safely, with the most-effective, least traumatic methods possible. Treatment of cavities is important in children, even with baby teeth. If left untreated, decay in baby teeth is not just a problem localized to the mouth, it can affect the overall health of the child and impact the adult teeth as well. In addition, if baby teeth fall out too early, the spacing of the adult teeth will be affected and may require orthodontics and surgery.

Sealants

Sealants are becoming a popular tool for the prevention and treatment of cavities in children. A safe, tooth colored coating that is applied to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth, dental sealants are an effective way to prevent cavities. They coat the teeth, providing a barrier that prevents bacteria from reaching the teeth.

Sealants are recommended for use on permanent molars and premolars. They are often applied soon after they have erupted, at 6 years and at 12 years.

When compared to the cost of treating cavities, sealants are a cost-effective prevention option.

Nitrous Oxide

Some children are given nitrous oxide/oxygen - or what you may know as laughing gas - to relax them for their dental treatment. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is a blend of two gases, oxygen and nitrous oxide. Nitrous oxide/oxygen is given through a small breathing mask which is placed over the child’s nose, allowing them to relax without putting them to sleep. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes this technique as a very safe, effective technique for treating children’s dental needs. The gas is mild, easily taken, and it is quickly eliminated from the body and it is non-addictive. While inhaling nitrous oxide/oxygen, your child remains fully conscious and maintains all of their natural reflexes.

 Prior to your appointment:

  • Please inform us of any change to your child’s health and/or medical condition.
  • Tell us about any respiratory condition that makes breathing through the nose difficult for your child. It may limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide/oxygen.
  • Let us know if your child is taking any medication on the day of the appointment.

In-Office General Anesthesia

I.V. Sedation is recommended for apprehensive children, very young children, and children with special needs that do not work well in the dental chair. Our dentist performs the dental treatment in our office with the child anesthetized under I.V. sedation, which is administered and monitored by an anesthesiologist.